The arrival of the next pandemic is a matter of when, not if. In order to be prepared for it, we will need government-funded basic science in universities and the…
Category: Life
Depression Linked to Amygdala Activity
Summary: A new study reveals how depression affects brain activity in the basolateral amygdala (BLA) of rats. Using a microelectrode array, researchers found increased theta frequency activity in the BLA…
Brain Control of Escape Behavior May Unlock Anxiety Treatments
Summary: Researchers discovered how the brain controls sensitivity to threats, influencing escape behavior in mice. The study found that inhibitory neurons in the periaqueductal gray (PAG) regulate both the initiation…
Kelsey Byers – Functional Ecologists
Happy Pride Month! Join the British Ecological Society in this annual, global celebration as we share stories from STEM researchers who belong to the LGBTQ+ community. This post is by…
Empathy in Kids Linked to Poorer Health Amid Parental Conflict
Summary: Empathetic children aged 7-9 show poorer health and higher inflammation levels when exposed to interparental conflict. The research highlights the physiological impact of empathy in stressful home environments. The…
MDMA Variants Show Promise for Safer Psychotherapy
Summary: Researchers developed three new MDMA variants (ODMA, TDMA, and SeDMA) that retain the therapeutic benefits while reducing side effects. These compounds affect mood-regulating brain structures similarly to MDMA but…
Mindfulness Improves Sleep and Reduces Stress
Summary: A new study reveals that mindfulness helps improve sleep quality and reduce stress by focusing on the present and minimizing negative thoughts. The study tracked 144 nurses over two…
1 in 5 people have seasonal allergies — up from just 1% at the beginning of the 20th century. What’s the cause?
For around 20 per cent of us, nature’s annual awakening comes with side effects: Runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Some are so troubled by pollen allergies that they have…
ALS Study Reveals Subtypes and Promising Drug Target
Summary: Researchers identified four subtypes of ALS, which could lead to more effective, personalized treatments. The study also highlights significant molecular differences between men and women with ALS. A promising…
Resilience Linked to Healthier Brain and Gut
Summary: A new study reveals that resilient individuals show improved brain function and healthier gut microbiomes. The research highlights that resilient people have better emotional regulation and lower inflammation. This…
